VEGAS IN MY MIND

As I was roaming through the streets of my little town today, something caught my attention. There is quite a number of “Herna” (casino) in some strategic spots around the city. Because Czechs do love the outdoors, this is a sighting that I rather find quite unlikely.

When I think of casinos, I think of Las Vegas. Back in California, whenever somebody wants to splurge, celebrate or relax, it is the place to go. Aside from gambling, there are a lot of concerts and shows that are being run in various hotels. Not to mention that top-of-the-line spas are also one of its biggest attractions. Needless to say, Vegas meant partying or relaxing.

The Las Vegas Strip

But Vegas is not all about gambling or going wild. There are also a lot of things to do in Vegas outside the comfort of one’s hotel. One can visit Lake Mead and Hoover Dam, listed as one of the seven wonders of the industrial world. And for golf enthusiasts, there is also the option of visiting Boulder City, the only place in Nevada that is so unlike Vegas.

But perhaps one of my favorite and memorable activities on this side of the country was a trip to the Grand Canyon, right around Nevada’s neighboring state of Arizona. Although it is a few hours drive from Vegas, it is not that far away. The canyon’s unparalleled beauty was a great photography subject.

The short hikes to the viewing spots also provided a very good exercise for my feet and lungs.

Now that we are here in Czech, all I can do is reminisce those good old days. That’s why after seeing those casinos around town, I cannot help remembering those days when I was young and free and Vegas was just a few hours away.

My dream is to ride anywhere on a motorcycle. I think I’m getting too old and stiff these days. I swear I never would have paid any attention to my husband when we first met if it hadn’t been for his motorcycle! 😉

In one of the Third rock from the Sun episodes, Sally goes around asking women what attracted them to their men at first – turns out it was always the car 😉
And in your case, the bike 🙂
Have to admit though – there’s something about a certain kind of guy on a certain kind of bike…

I’ve never been to Vegas… or the surrounding area for its scenic delights. Ok, I take that back – I did fly into and out of the airport once, and the skyline lit up at night was something spectacular!! I would like to get there someday maybe. Once again, beautiful photos! 🙂

Great write up, Grace. Nice photos. I live in Vegas. It’s like any other city with its dark side and limelight. Although we do need the tourist base in the casinos because that is what drives the economy here, articles like yours pointing out the outside attractions is touching to see. I was surprised to read you included Boulder City, it’s a place where a lot of Vegans go to escape the fast-paced life. Henderson, next door is much slower, too. Thanks for the positive outlook.